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In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:

Interest in precision working to conduct work measurement and other studies and to set machine and equipment controls

METHODICAL

Interest in compiling operational or experimental data; and in collecting and analyzing data and samples in support of quality assurance and industrial health and safety programs

innovative

Interest in assisting engineers to develop manufacturing and processing procedures and variables, and to oversee production and inspect processes

Reading Interest Codes

A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.

In injection molding, molten plastic material is injected into a steel mold to form individual three-dimensional products such as industrial components, domestic goods or medical parts. Softened plastic quickly cools and hardens in the mold. Then the mold opens, the part is ejected and the process is repeated to produce another part.

In rotational molding, powdered plastic is placed inside a mold and the mold is rotated, heated and cooled to form large, sometimes complex, parts.

In extrusion processes, softened plastic is forced through a metal die to produce continuous products (for example, plastic pipe, film and sheet goods, wire and cable covering) or to pre-mix plastic to modify its properties.

In blow molding, melted plastic is formed into a parison (a tube-like piece of plastic with a hole in one end). A pressurized gas, usually compressed air, is used to expand the hot parison, pressing it against a mold cavity. The pressure is held until the plastic cools forming a hollow container.

monitor the operation of automated equipment and record product measurement and output rates

adjust process conditions to correct part defects, meet product specifications and production requirements, and optimize productivity

maintain and interpret quality control systems

set up equipment and troubleshoot problems

safely start up and shut down automated equipment

properly install, maintain, handle and store molds and dies.

Working Conditions

Updated Dec 19, 2016

Plastics processing technicians work in manufacturing plants that often operate 24 hours a day. They work shifts that may include nights, weekends and holidays. Working in an industrial environment often requires wearing safety gear such as eye and ear protection and steel-toed boots to reduce the risk of injury.

the communication and interpersonal skills required to work effectively in a team environment.

They should enjoy performing tasks requiring precision, taking a methodical approach to their work and assisting engineers.

Educational Requirements

Updated Dec 19, 2016

Plastics processing technicians need:

basic math skills

a working knowledge of the processing characteristics of common plastics materials

the knowledge and skills required to set up and maintain automated processing equipment

related safety training.

In Alberta, most plastics processing technicians are trained on the job. Employers may require applicants to have one or more of the following qualifications:

experience working in manufacturing or production environments

experience working with small tools, forklifts or pallet jacks

related post-secondary education or training (for example, a minimum of one semester in materials engineering or manufacturing technology, or completion of the first and second periods of millwright or related apprenticeship training)

a Fourth Class Power Engineering Certificate.

Related Education

The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.

Southern Alberta Institute of Technology

Certification is not required, as there is currently no legislation regulating this occupation.

Employment & Advancement

Updated Dec 19, 2016

Plastics processing technicians are employed by large and small plastics manufacturing firms.

Experienced plastics processing technicians may advance to supervisory positions or move into related positions in quality control and testing, equipment maintenance, or costing and production estimating. Further education may be required to advance to management positions.

Plastics processing technicians are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 2233: Industrial engineering and manufacturing technologists and technicians. In Alberta, 76% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:

occupational growth (work opportunities resulting from the creation of new positions that never existed before)

size of the occupation.

In Alberta, the C133: Industrial Engineering and Manufacturing Technologists and Technicians occupational group is expected to have a below-average annual growth of 1.2% from 2016 to 2020. In addition to job openings created by employment turnover, 20 new positions are forecasted to be created within this occupational group each year.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Swipe left and right to view all data.Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

B: Good Reliability

Data Reliability Code Definition

Good Reliability, represents a CV of between 6.01% and 15.00% and/or fewer than 30 survey observations and/or if survey observations represent less than 50% of all estimated employment for the occupation.

Updated Mar 29, 2015. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.